12 August 2019
Upper North Island electricity lines companies are keeping close watch on weather
Electricity network companies around the upper North Island are on alert and prepared for more unsettled weather and the
possibility of lightning strikes today, noting that customers should stay well clear of any electrical equipment damaged
in stormy conditions.
Upper North Island electricity lines companies include Vector, WEL Networks, Northpower and Counties Power.
MetService has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch, including the potential for thunderstorms and strong wind gusts with
the strength to cause damage to trees and power lines.
Upper North Island electricity lines companies want the public to be aware of the potential hazards strong winds,
lightning and stormy conditions can create.
Lightning strikes, trees and branches crashing into lines and cars colliding with power poles are all possibilities
during stormy conditions.
People are being asked to consider putting garden furniture and trampolines away, as well as any loose material around
the garden such as tarpaulins, as these all have the potential to be hazardous during the storm.
Although field crews are trained to work in all weather conditions and at any hour, there may be circumstances during
which it is unsafe for them to begin or continue working to fix outages, for example during high winds or lightning
strikes.
During a power outage, crews will work as quickly as they can to restore power, but please remember that the safety of
the public and electrical field staff is of primary importance at all times. And most importantly, please, always treat
downed lines as live at all times, report them immediately to your local electricity distribution business and stay well
clear.
ENDS